Jody Leah Kielblock

Practical placements have meant that I am job ready as a graduate.   I’ve been lucky to work at some of the best and most challenging hospitals and health centres in Melbourne and wider Victoria.

I enrolled in the Bachelor of Nursing towards the end of my Diploma of Nursing at RMIT. I really wanted to continue on and achieve a higher qualification because I had had such a positive experience studying.

I chose RMIT because it had a good reputation in the workplace, which I think is important when you graduate and start to look for work.

Some of the many highlights have included the friendships I’ve made, the practical placements, the skills I’ve learned and the volunteer days I’ve been able to participate in while studying at RMIT.

My practical placements have meant that I am job ready as a graduate as I’ve been lucky to work at some of the best and most challenging hospitals and health centres in Melbourne and wider Victoria.

On the wards, I’ve gained experience in palliative care, rehabilitation, gastroenterology, neurology, osteo and plastics as well as acute areas like emergency and perioperative/theatre.

Practical placements have not only helped me to find my niche, talents and passions within nursing, but also increased my practical skills and confidence.

I was fortunate to receive a Study Support Scholarship, which helped me to cover some of my day-to-day expenses and a Hardship Grant, which allowed me to purchase my first laptop, so I could study from home.

I was also invited to join the Golden Key Honours Society in recognition of being in the top 15% of my course.

Having access to the library at the Bundoora campus and its facilities has been a major part of my success as a student – I’ve practically lived here for the past four years! My advice to future students is to take advantage of any services available to you when you need support.

If you are struggling – seek help. It’s not the smartest or wealthiest student who achieves the best, but those who are determined and don’t give up. Plan and organise your time to study so that you can get your work done well and achieve high grades.

Make the most of any opportunities that come your way and get involved. Volunteering to help out at Open Days and other events will build your confidence, collaboration and leadership skills – and it’s fun!